The Secret In My Garden...

Retirement boredom led Patricia to unearth local secrets, as well as a talent for writing…

- Patricia Wilson

After taking early retirement, my husband and I found our place in the sun, on the island of Crete. However, I soon realised that lying on a beach all day with nothing to do was my worst nightmare.

I decided to set myself a challenge. Each year, I would try to master a new skill, to be worked on like a real job for three hours a day. Among other things, I learned to dive, sail, paint, build a house, catch fish, play classical guitar and become a photographer – all with varying levels of proficiency.

After living in the tourist area of Crete for many years, we moved to a 200-year-old cottage in the remote village of Amiras, high in the mountains. The year flew by, refurbishing the property and getting to know the local people and customs.